Train with the UK’s leading domestic abuse organisation
Our Level 3 OCN-accredited qualification equips you with the knowledge, skills and professional confidence to work as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, supporting survivors at the highest levels of risk.
This is training shaped by frontline expertise, national influence, and survivor voice — setting the standard for best practice across the sector.
Why choose Refuge?
When you train with Refuge, you’re learning from an organisation that doesn’t just deliver services, we help shape how domestic abuse is responded to across the UK.
Our training is designed and delivered by people who are deeply connected to the work:
- In-house trainers, who will support you throughout your learning
- Our national Technical and Economic Abuse team, experts who influence policy and practice across the sector
- Learning shaped by Refuge’s services, including our 24/7 Domestic Abuse Helpline
What makes this course different?
- Grounded in real-world practice
- Strong focus on trauma-informed and survivor-centred approaches
- Up-to-date with national policy, legislation and sector developments
- Designed to build both confidence and competence in high-risk casework
- Delivered in a supportive, reflective learning environment
- A mixed delivery model, with some elearning to support flexibility
What you will learn
This programme covers the core competencies required to work effectively as an IDVA, including:
- Understanding domestic abuse, risk, and coercive control
- Safety planning and high-risk case management
- The criminal and civil justice systems
- Housing, MARAC, and multi-agency working
- Supporting survivors with diverse and intersectional needs
- Trauma-informed practice and responding to complex needs
You will leave equipped to deliver safe, consistent and high-quality advocacy.
Course details
- Qualification: Level 3 Certificate (OCN London)
- Format: Blended learning (live sessions, independent study, and assessment)
- Assessment: Portfolio-based
- Dates:
Cohort 1: June 2026 – Oct 2026
Cohort 2: November 2026 – March 2027
- Location: Online
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for:
- unqualified IDVAs, VAWG sector community workers, advocacy staff etc
- Domestic abuse practitioners looking to step into or strengthen an IDVA role
- Professionals in housing, health, social care or the voluntary sector who work with domestic abuse caseloads
The Refuge difference
Completing your IDVA qualification with Refuge is about more than gaining a certificate.
You’ll be learning with an organisation that works at the heart of the UK’s domestic abuse response, where survivor voice, frontline practice, and national influence all come together.
Apply now
Places are limited and courses fill quickly.
Register your interest here IDVA Expression of Interest 2026 – Fill in form
